Helpful Hints for Reenacting Groups

When I published last week's post, I understood that many would respond. Most were quite positive, as they were observations others have noticed over the years. It seems many have responded with positive conversations that may lead to growth. If even one group benefits, then it was worth the effort.

People have asked me specifically, in comments and personal messages, about how we move forward. There are many solutions! It's not a one-size-fits-all sort of thing. In fact, I teach a workshop at my conference about inspiring youth participation, and we barely scratch the surface with well over an hour. Here are a few ideas for helping your event or group grow. Take what you need, ignore what you don't, share if you think it will help others!

Recruiting New Members

1. Attend events that align with your mission

2. Post online often with images showing your research/fun

3. Keep updated with social media sites

4. Create an event specifically run by group

5. Offer a mentorship to help them feel welcome

6. Connect with schools/teachers to find interested youth

7. Keep a webpage with easy contact information for the group

8. Keep an extra kit/clothing available for a day visit

9. Designate a person in charge of interacting with new members

10. Create flyers/cards for members to promote at events

Retaining Current Members

1. Offer payment plan options for new gear

2. Have a "Members Only" page for communication

3. Share resources for future impressions

4. Mentor and put young people in planning positions

5. Provide fun events for members, such as potlucks or sewing days

6. Make dues, if any, affordable

7. Bring in instructors for group learning.

8. Connect with similar groups to team up for events

9. Donate to nonprofits that promote similar group goals

10. Support current members' businesses or side projects

Create a Plan for the Future

1. Keep accurate record of all board positions for future participants

2. Make a yearly "theme" for certain events

3. Create a dialogue with members who actively espouse hateful ideals

4. Invest in members with scholarships if possible

5. Find new events for participation

6. Incorporate people of color into impressions or conversations

7. Create a timeline for improvements in the group

8. Create a research project for current members

9. Invest in a camera or other technology to improve the group experiences

10. Provide members with a yearly goal setting workshop

Don't feel like you have to do all of these! And there are many, many more. Some of them I've seen in executed perfectly in groups here in Michigan. For others, I'd like to see them plan. We are human after all, and Rome wasn't built in a day.

If you'd like to brainstorm more ideas, feel free to comment below with your email. I'd like to help!

~Kristen